Council Bluffs Development News
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Intersection Improvements, Trail Extension, and E-Scooter Liability Concerns Addressed
The council approved several items related to infrastructure improvements and public safety. They accepted a bid from Carly Construction for the Valley View and Franklin Avenue intersection improvement project, which will include closing the intersection for efficiency and eventually installing a stoplight [cite: 827, 832, 835, 837, 838, 841]. Carly Construction was also awarded a contract for the South 24th Street Trail Extension project [cite: 339, 341, 343, 344]. The council also approved ordinances related to alarm systems and animal control, including the management of potentially dangerous and dangerous dogs [cite: 1570, 1623]. Discussions also touched upon the potential implementation of e-scooters, with legal counsel highlighting significant litigation risks and the need for robust waivers and indemnity agreements [cite: 890, 903, 904, 919, 946].
Council Debates Significant Increase in Utility Franchise Fees
The council discussed potentially increasing franchise fees for electric and natural gas utilities. Currently, Council Bluffs has a 2% franchise fee for both MidAmerican Energy (electric) and Black Hills Energy (natural gas). The city attorney's office presented data showing that similarly sized cities in Iowa have franchise fees averaging 3.65% for both electric and gas, with some as high as 5%. The proposed increase could significantly boost city revenue, with estimates suggesting an increase from approximately $2.29 million annually to $3.7 million (at 3.5% electric and 2.25% gas) or even $4.29 million (at 3.75% for both). Council members expressed concerns about the impact on residents, particularly regarding increased winter heating costs, and debated whether to implement a flat increase or differentiate between residential and commercial/industrial users. The decision was deferred for further consideration and potential ordinance development.
Key Contracts Awarded, Assistant City Attorney Appointed; Police/Fire Raises Tabled
The City Council approved several hiring and procurement actions. Carly Construction, LLC was awarded two contracts: one for the Valley View and Franklin Avenue intersection improvements and another for the South 24th Street Trail Extension [cite: 827, 840, 339, 344]. The council also approved the appointment of Jacob Shorelimmer as Assistant City Attorney [cite: 843, 850]. Discussions also touched on potential wage increases for supervisory police and fire employees, which were ultimately tabled to allow for further negotiation and information gathering [cite: 530, 531, 1640, 1641]. The city also reviewed its fee schedule for 2026 [cite: 853, 860].
Council Approves TNR Program for Cats, Amends Dog Ordinances
The City Council discussed and approved amendments to animal control ordinances, specifically focusing on the management of cat populations and potentially dangerous/dangerous dogs. The key ordinance change (Ordinance 6676-A) allows for a Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program for stray and feral cats, managed by the Humane Society. This amendment removes the 'community cat' classification, addresses concerns about animal abandonment, and allows for cats to be relocated if they pose a nuisance to neighbors. The council also approved ordinances related to potentially dangerous and dangerous dogs (Ordinances 6687 and 6688), which clarify procedures for designation, seizure, destruction, and appeals, aiming to improve consistency and legal clarity. The TNR program will be funded by the Humane Society and donors, not city funds.
Rezoning for Indoor Golf Simulator Approved; Plat Approval for Collision Center
The council approved several zoning and land use items. Ordinance 6684, which rezones property at 2231 Avenue B from R2 to R3 to allow for an indoor golf simulator, was approved [cite: 310, 314]. Resolution 26-224, granting final plat approval for ABC Collision Center to combine two lots into one for an addition, was also approved [cite: 316, 319]. Resolution 26-226, a second amendment to a purchase and sale agreement for the Freeze-Out property, was approved to correct a legal description error [cite: 350, 357].
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